Winter in New Hampshire is magical! Whether you are cozying up by a fire sipping hot chocolate or wine, or are enjoying the great outdoors, there is something for everyone in New Hampshire during the winter months. Below you will find the top indoor and outdoor adventures in New Hampshire.
Things to do Outdoors in New Hampshire in the Winter
We are often asked, “How cold does it get in the winter?” The average temperature from November – February is the mid to low 30s whereas at night it can drop into the teens and we average 45″ of snow each year. New Hampshire is a winter wonderland and the outdoor adventures are many.
Experience the Beauty and Fun of the Ice Castles
*Photo Provided by Ice Castles
There is nothing more beautiful than the New Hampshire Ice Castles! Bundle up and explore the stunningly beautiful castles and mark this one off your bucket list. The Ice Castles are located in North Woodstock, which is only about 30 minutes from Squam Lake Inn.
- Ice slides
- Mystic forest light walk – a quarter-mile illuminated walking path
- Snow tubing
- Crawl tunnels
- Sleigh rides
- Book a VIP experience for the perfect proposal or special occasion
Ticket sales open in January and you will want to book early online so you can get a coveted ticket.
Enjoy a Winter Hike on Squam
Take in the serenity and beauty of Squam Lake with a winter hike. Bundle up as you embark on a winter wonderland adventure. We can guide you to the best places for your skill level to ensure a fun hike.
Feast Your Eyes on 3.5 Million Lights at the Gift of Lights
*Photo Provided by Motor Speedway
The New Hampshire Motor Speedway located in Loudon, NH (40 minutes from Squam Lake Inn) gets decorated with 3.5 million LED lights for your viewing pleasure. Guests can enjoy the sights from November 25th through January 2nd. Pack some hot cocoa, turn on the Christmas music and enjoy a sparkly 2.5 mile drive that is absolutely stunning.
Try Your Hand at Ice Skating on White Oak Pond
Bring or rent some ice skates and test out your ice skating skills on White Oak Pond, which is only a 3 minute drive from the inn. Enjoy an afternoon out, feel the brisk air in your face, then come back to the inn to warm up and enjoy great food and drink.
Hit the Slopes Skiing and Snowboarding in the White Mountains
There are many ski resorts to choose from in New Hampshire where you can enjoy skiing or snowboarding. The ski resorts are only 30 minutes to an hour from the inn.
- Gunstock Mountain – 24 miles away from the inn
- Waterville Valley – 25 miles away from the inn
- Ragged Mountain – 27 miles away from the inn
- Loon Mountain – 30 miles away from the inn
- Canon Mountain – 37 miles away from the inn
There are many more ski resorts near our inn. Talk to our staff to figure out which ski resort is perfect for your skiing and snowboarding preferences.
Try Nordic or Cross Country Skiing on and Around Squam Lake
There is nothing more fun than strapping on your skis, grabbing your poles and taking in the beauty of New Hampshire while cross country skiing.Enjoy a killer workout, stunning views, work up an appetite then join us back at the Inn Kitchen + Bar.
Things to do Indoors in New Hampshire in the Winter
Complete Your Holiday Shopping
Enjoy a New Hampshire getaway and get your holiday shopping done at the same time. We have incredible local boutique shops filled with unique gifts, which are perfect for those that have everything.
- Shop at local boutiques near the inn.
- Venture to the Tanger Outlets in Tilton which offers 50 outlet shops.
- Drive to North Conway which has outlets too, as well as any store you could possibly need.
Enjoy the Inn Kitchen + Bar Seasonal Menu
We pride ourselves on providing exceptional service, even better food, on point drinks and an overall fun time at the Inn Kitchen + Bar. After a day of winter adventures in New Hampshire, head back to your room and clean up for dinner. We use the freshest ingredients and create incredible seasonal dishes you don’t want to miss! Skip the line and book a reservation online.
- Hot Tip: Don’t forget to try our world-famous ice cream sandwiches and also watch out for the popular wine dinners as they book up fast!
Enjoy the Best Beer Tasting in New Hampshire
Beer lovers love New Hampshire! Guests can enjoy beer flights at the Inn Kitchen + Bar or by heading to a nearby brewery for tastings and live music. There is nothing better than a cold seasonal brew. Below are some of our nearby favorite breweries.
- Twin Barns – Meredith, NH
- Schillings – Littleton, NH
- Kettlehead – Tilton, NH
- White Mountain Brewery – Ashland, NH
- Hobbs Brewery – Ossipee, NH
And many more! Whether you are into ale, IPA, brown, hefeweizen or stout, we have a brewery nearby that is perfect for you.
Ride the Conway Scenic Railroad
If you are making your way to New Hampshire in October and November you are in luck! The Conway Scenic Railroad offers rides through the stunning Mount Washington Valley and Crawford Notch. This is an experience like no other and offers you a glimpse at surroundings you would never have a chance to see. You can book your tickets online and enjoy a day trip like no other.
Cozy Up By the Fire in a Romantic Room
Your perfect New Hampshire winter getaway is complete with a stay at the top-rated Squam Lake Inn. We offer 10 cozy traditional and deluxe rooms – all with private baths, incredible breakfast, Wi-Fi and more. Join us for your New Hampshire winter getaway of a lifetime.
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